Department of English Language and Literature

Applying to Grad School

Early in your final year, check the application deadlines for programs you plan to apply to. Often these deadlines are quite soon after the Christmas break.

Faculty members are happy to provide references for students. However, you should ask for references at least two weeks before they are due. You must give referees the correct address, the deadline by which the reference must arrive, and any other information specific to the application (a copy of your letter of application, copies of transcripts, your résumé and so on are helpful in preparing references). Writing reference letters is time consuming, and it is your best interests to provide as much notice and information as possible.